Original source: Vigil for Öcalan and Medya News
Pervin Buldan, and Sırrı Süreyya Önder of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, shared details of their historic meeting with Abdullah Öcalan at İmralı Prison on 28 December in the following statement:
To the Press and Public,
On 28 December 2024, we conducted a comprehensive meeting with Mr. Abdullah Öcalan on İmralı Island. His health is good, and his morale is quite high. His evaluations regarding finding a permanent solution to the Kurdish Question were of vital importance.
In the meeting, which also assessed recent developments in the Middle East and Turkey, Mr. Öcalan presented positive solution proposals to counter imposed dark future scenarios.
The general framework of his thoughts and approach is as follows:
Strengthening Turkish-Kurdish brotherhood is not only a historical responsibility but has also gained critical and urgent significance for the destiny of all peoples.
For the success of this process, it is essential for all political circles in Turkey to take initiative without being caught up in narrow and short-term calculations, to act constructively, and to contribute positively. Undoubtedly, one of the most important platforms for these contributions will be the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM).
The events in Gaza and Syria have demonstrated that this issue, which external interventions have attempted to exacerbate into a chronic crisis, can no longer be postponed. The contributions and proposals of the opposition are also valuable for achieving a solution proportionate to the seriousness of this matter.
I have the competence and determination to provide the necessary positive contribution to the new paradigm strengthened by Mr. Bahçeli and Mr. Erdoğan.
The delegation will share this approach of mine with both the state and political circles. In light of this, I am ready to take the necessary positive step and issue the call.
All these efforts will elevate the country to its rightful level and also serve as a very valuable guide for democratic transformation.
This is the era of peace, democracy, and brotherhood for Turkey and the region.With respect to the public,
Pervin Buldan and Sırrı Süreyya Önder
29 December 2024
Buldan also announced that the DEM Party will engage with parliamentary leaders in the coming days, requesting meetings at the highest levels. Veteran Kurdish politician Ahmet Türk is also expected to join these efforts based on the suggestion of Abdullah Öcalan himself. “We must not waste another opportunity,” Buldan stated, reflecting on the lessons of the 2013–2015 resolution process.
In her remarks, Buldan stressed that all political actors must contribute to this reconciliation effort. “If peace and democracy are truly desired, now is the time for everyone to shoulder responsibility,” she said. Öcalan’s message included a direct appeal to Parliament, describing it as the most significant platform for driving constructive dialogue and reconciliation.
